Should Chicago roll the dice on Rudy?

From what I’ve heard it’s in Portland’s hands now for what they want. I’ve heard the Bulls have a pretty good shot, but nothing matters until it’s done. Let’s not overstate Fernandez, who always has sounded better than he has performed. But he’d be an excellent addition, and as I wrote Monday the No. 1 guy I’d still pursue.

These new additions plus the old nucleus should position the club to compete in the Eastern Conference. Adding the wrong piece – like a talented but temperamental perimeter player – could be disastrous, though.

Why roll the dice on Rudy Fernandez, who performed and pouted through two up-and-down seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers?

Fernandez, a star in Europe, couldn’t handle sitting behind All-Star Brandon Roy. It didn’t matter that he was a key reserve on a promising squad. And it didn’t matter that he was in a terrific market, either.

There wasn’t enough shine in Portland, which led to Fernandez recently taking his trade requests public, something European publications had hinted at for months.

Chicago must tread carefully with Fernandez. The Spanish swing’s athleticism and shooting could fit; however, he may struggle as a blending piece behind Boozer and Rose.

Unfortunately, they may not have a choice. The Eastern Conference is in arms-race mode, with the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and Orlando Magic outdoing each other with signings and trades.

To keep pace in the Eastern Conference, to have any chance of advancing to the NBA Finals, Chicago will have to take the risk and acquire Fernandez.